The Voice: August 19th, 2025
Steel Industry Employers Survey, Canada Strengthens Mexico Ties, Next Stop for West-East Energy Corridor, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Steel Industry Employers Survey
The federal government is rolling out a $70 million workforce support package to assist steel workers impacted by tariffs. As part of this effort, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) is seeking Chamber's assistance in identifying employers that fall specifically within the 3311 and 3312 NAICS categories.
Complete the survey here: https://forms.office.com/r/ej1jWZyBX2
Canada Strengthens Mexico Ties as U.S. Tariff Impacts Deepen
With trade talks stalled with Washington, Canada is turning to Mexico to reinforce economic cooperation ahead of the upcoming USMCA review. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand and Finance Minister François Philippe Champagne traveled to Mexico City for meetings with President Claudia Sheinbaum, senior officials and business leaders. The visit focused on expanding energy and infrastructure investment, including opportunities for Canada’s major pension funds, and setting the stage for Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit later this year. Prime Minister Carney says 85% of Canada’s trade with the U.S. remains tariff-free under the USMCA, but analysts caution this reflects goods eligible for exemptions rather than those actually certified. Many small and medium-sized exporters face complex and costly certification requirements, prompting some to absorb tariff costs, raise prices or seek new markets. The ongoing uncertainty is likely to further disrupt supply chains and place a disproportionate economic burden on Canadian small businesses.
Next step for west-east energy corridor
As a next step forward, Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan have launched a national request for proposals (RFP) to study the feasibility of a west-east economic and energy corridor. The study will explore ways to better transport Alberta’s oil, gas, and critical minerals to domestic and global markets.
This initiative aligns with the Alberta Chambers of Commerce’s advocacy efforts:
- Market Access for Alberta-Based Energy Products (2024)
- Enhancing Alberta's Natural Gas System (2023)
- Alberta’s Role in Enhancing Interprovincial Collaboration (2025)
- Establishment of a Pre-Approved Trade Corridor (2025)
ACC’s latest Alberta Perspectives research confirms that removing interprovincial trade barriers and expanding pipelines to access non-U.S. markets are now top priorities for Alberta businesses (77%) and the public (58%).
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Land and Real Estate Strategy
The City’s current inventory of single-family lots is almost sold out with only 4 lots remaining, but the Land & Real Estate team is actively planning for what’s next—both in the immediate future and as part of a long-term strategy to support continued growth. The department presented the Land and Real Estate Strategy to City Council in June. This strategy sets a path to maximize the economic, social and environmental benefits of this land to accommodate residential, commercial, and industrial growth and community needs over the coming years. Read the strategy here
Brooks-Newell News
IAC replacing Joint Services
The County has approved new terms of reference for the Intermunicipal Affairs Committee, launching after the 2025 municipal elections. Councils from Bassano, Brooks, Duchess, Newell, and Rosemary will meet three times a year to coordinate regional priorities, training, and shared services. The committee will host delegations like STARS and the EID. Quarterly CAO meetings will receive updates from key service providers that were created to serve the municipalities in the region, such as landfill, recycling, water, and emergency services.
Source: Larkspur
Growing and diversifying ag research
Alberta’s agriculture sector has a well-earned reputation for making the world’s best agri-food products, from that directly benefits farmers high-quality honey to top-shelf triticale. That reputation is owed in part to innovative research the province’s two crop diversification centres (CDC) have been conducting for decades, that directly benefits farmers. With that in mind, Budget 2025 earmarked a total of $5.2 million for repairs, upgrades, replacements and operational support at both CDC North in northeast Edmonton and CDC South, southeast of Brooks. CDC South is a production and research greenhouse facility and base of operations for plant health surveillance and field operations, with $3 million earmarked for facility repairs and upgrades and $500,000 for operational support. Find out more.
$2.6M Grant Secured for Range Road 150
The County has been awarded $2,628,000 through the Alberta Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) for Range Road 150, the southbound connection from Highway 1 near Lakeside Feeders. The project, considered part of the north–south truck route, includes grade widening, surface treatment, and extensive engagement with landowners and utility companies. Originally budgeted to be fully funded from the County’s paving reserve, the grant significantly offsets project costs.
Source: Larkspur
New Economic Development Agreement
The Agreement maintains the historic $180,000 annual contributions from the City and County, plus adds 2% of each municipality’s Local Government Fiscal Framework grant. Councillor Neil Johnson noted that over a council term, the City and County’s contributions alone total more than $700,000, and called for clear ways to measure results. CAO Matt Fenske said accountability will come from the IAC, where all councillors will help set the economic development work plan, establish targets and measurable deliverables, and receive regular progress updates. He also noted that most of the 2021–2022 work plan has been completed. Source: Larkspur
Advocacy in Action
Canadian Chamber Response to the 2026 Pre-Budget Consultation
The Canadian Chamber submitted recommendations to the House Standing Committee on Finance ahead of the 2026 federal budget. The recommendations focus on reducing business taxes and red tape, strengthening trade and resource infrastructure, advancing innovation, developing tech talent and supporting industries impacted by trade disruptions.
Alberta and Canada respond to China’s canola tariffs
China has imposed an additional 75.8% tariff on Canadian canola products, adding to the existing 100% duties on canola oil, oil cake, and peas.
"We cannot leave our farmers and producers to face this challenge alone. We call on the federal government to work with American and Chinese counterparts toward a swift resolution." - Candace Laign, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Canadian Chamber of Commerce statement
Government of Alberta statement | Government of Canada statement
Immigration Levels Plan - share your feedback
The Government of Canada is seeking feedback on its Immigration Levels Plan, which sets annual targets for permanent resident admissions by category. Input is now being gathered on how to balance these categories and programs to ensure immigration supports Canada’s economic, social, and regional priorities. Share your feedback
Fuel tax exemption consultation open
Alberta’s government is seeking input from fuel sellers and purchasers, particularly in agriculture, oil and gas, and forestry, on a proposal to shift the marked fuel tax exemption to clear fuel. This survey is open until August 31st. Learn more | Share your input
Federal free trade and labour mobility in Canada act consultation
The Government of Canada is seeking input on new regulations under the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act. Alberta businesses are encouraged to share their perspectives by August 22. In partnership with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the government will be hosting in-person and virtual roundtables to gather feedback. Learn more | Share your feedback
Next Level Events
Business Brainstorming & Beers
Join the Chamber at locations around Medicine Hat to discuss whatever needs discussing at your business. Whether it's business growth, workforce challenges, new business opportunities, regulatory hurdles, or anything else, we are all about finding solutions. Come have a drink with us and solve the world's problems!
WHEN: August 21st, 2025 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
WHERE: note: comfort food + drink | 675 2nd St SE, Medicine Hat AB
Unlock Your Potential: Reach More Canadians with Walmart Marketplace Canada
On September 9, in collaboration with Walmart Marketplace Canada, the Canadian Chamber will be hosting a lunchtime webinar on how Canadian businesses can tap into the power of Walmart.ca. Join us to learn how selling on Walmart Marketplace Canada can unlock new opportunities, expand your reach to millions of Canadian customers and drive meaningful sales growth. Registration is free; don’t miss out! Register Now
Advancing Canada’s Health Data Future
Bringing Canada’s medical system into the 21st century with an interoperable pan-Canadian health data system will not only benefit patients with better treatments and access to care, but it will also make us more economically resilient by attracting investment into our world-leading life sciences industry and supporting a healthy and productive population. Join the Canadian Chamber on September 18 for a hybrid event on accelerating connected care. We’ll explore the economic benefits, public-private collaboration and a unified vision for nationwide health data interoperability. Register
Over 80% SOLD!! Brooks Fall Home & Leisure Tradeshow
The Brooks tradeshow is happening October 3rd-5th, and there are multiple opportunities to be a part of it! With over 80% of booth sold out, book a your space to showcase your business to thousands of attendees over the weekend now, or sponsor a part of the show to get your business name out there.
Not registering as a vendor? Save the date and we will see you there as an attendee! Tickets coming soon 🙂
2025 Leadership Breakfast
Join us for our annual Leadership Breakfast, a signature event that brings together administrative leaders from across our region. This is your opportunity to engage directly with regional decision-makers, participate in open dialogue, and help shape the conversation that drives our communities forward. As a Municipal Election Year, we’ll explore how each municipality is managing transitions, onboarding new council members, maintaining momentum on current initiatives, and aligning strategic priorities going into 2025–2026.
Enriching Your Business
There's a reason Chambers Plan is Canada's #1 plan.
JoAnne Letkeman, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Medicine Hat & District | (403) 504-2166 ext 1.
Scott Walls, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Brooks-Newell Region | (403) 892-9675
Fuelling the Business Community
New Chamber Members
We would like to welcome Piston Broke Brewing and The Travel Agent Next Door - Jenna Kornishyna to the Chamber Family!
We continually look forward to helping our members during their business journey and wish each the best in all future endeavors. We are extremely happy to have such amazing members, and are very glad that we can serve a part in that journey! Keep your eye out for more new member posts moving forward!
Still Time to Apply: 2025 Inclusive Growth Awards
The Canadian Chamber is celebrating the businesses, nonprofits and chambers driving diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and economic reconciliation in Canada. Winners will be recognized at the national AGM & Convention on October 9 in Mississauga.
Nominate yourself or someone you know today!
July & August Elavon Promo
Throughout the month of July and August, any new member who signs up through our Chamber Referral Program will receive $150 statement credit! Promotion Period: July 1st ~ August 31st, 2025.
How Members Can Participate:
- Submit a web inquiry through the Elavon Chamber landing page:Â https://join.paymentstart.com/cachamber
- Our dedicated sales representatives will promptly reach out for a consultation within 24- 48 hours
- Complete the sign-up process by August 31st, 2025, and members will be qualified to receive $150 Statement credit
Fill Up On Funding
Community Foundation’s Fall 2025 Grant Cycle Now Open
Charities and non-profit groups across Southeastern Alberta are encouraged to apply for funding to support local programs and initiatives that strengthen their communities. Eligible applicants include registered charities, municipalities, and school divisions, recognized as qualified donees by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Learn more and apply online at www.cfsea.ca/grants.
Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant
The Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG) helps employers invest in training that focuses on enhancing productivity skills for their current and future employees that aligns with the needs of their business. It is an employer-driven program meant to partially reimburse the cost for an employer to send their employee(s) for training. Employers apply on behalf of their employees and invest in training that enhances productivity and workforce competitiveness. Funding is provided by the Government of Canada through the Workforce Development Agreement. Applications will open in the fall of 2025. Find out more: https://www.alberta.ca/canada-alberta-productivity-grant
A recording of the CAPG General Presentation is now published on YouTube. It can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/dsx28gX8ujk?si=mmz360rmoe3KDNrT
Visit alberta.ca/Canada-Alberta-productivity-grant for more information on the program, eligibility and how to register for online information sessions. Additional questions can be directed to jobgrant@gov.ab.ca.
Applications for RDAR's OFCAF program re-open
RDAR recently re-opened applications for the On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) program.
OFCAF provides financial support to producers to accelerate their adoption and implementation of on-farm beneficial management practices (BMPs) to lower greenhouse gas emissions, support production efficiency, sustainability and resiliency on their farm operations.
To assist producers with their adoption of new BMPs, the program will offer producers resources to support BMP implementation and provide BMP design recommendations.
Built Together Fund
The Alberta Blue Cross Built Together program helps Albertans build spaces for active living in their community. Whether it be a skate park, playground, outdoor gym or sports court, we're giving back to Albertans and helping them live their best lives. Each year, this Alberta grant awards $50,000 grants in Edmonton, Calgary, a secondary city, rural community and an Indigenous community. The application deadline is September 22, 2025. Find out more
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
No crossword answers for last week. Stay tuned for this edition's answers!
Remember that subscribing to our weekly email gets you access to the crossword puzzle. Anyone who sends us their answers will get their name put into our quarterly draw.
The prize? Receive 5 promotional credits with us (for members) or credit towards a membership (for non-members)! Oh and bragging rights that you're a crossword master.
Other Resources
Alberta Economy - Indicators at a Glance
Labour Market Notes – Labour market takes a step back
Alberta Labour Force Highlights – July 2025
Alberta Indigenous Labour Force Highlights – July 2025
BDC: Kaizen blitz: 5 steps for radical transformations in your business
BDC: Free and low-cost money management tools
Other Events
Unlocking Indo-Pacific Markets
Grow your business with AI-powered tools by Google | On Demand
August 20 | Grant Writing 101 | Info here
October 28th | Business Growth Tradeshow
October 29-30 | Economic Growth Forum
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: August 19th, 2025
Steel Industry Employers Survey, Canada Strengthens Mexico Ties, Next Stop for West-East Energy Corridor, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Steel Industry Employers Survey The federal government is rolling out a $70 million workforce support package to assist steel workers impacted by tariffs. As part of this effort, Employment…
Read More The Voice: August 12th, 2025
Current Initiatives in Medicine Hat, Alberta Open Farm Days, Fuel Tax Exemption Consultation Open, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Next step for west-east energy corridor The Ontario government, in cooperation with Alberta and Saskatchewan, has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to conduct a feasibility study exploring options…
Read More The Voice: August 5th, 2025
Chamber Request for Proposals, Trade and Tariffs Resources, and Royal Tyrrell Marks 40 Years all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Request for Proposals: Business Banking and Investment Services for the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce is seeking proposals from qualified financial institutions and investment advisors…
Read More